I'm moving to Alex's point of view now… mainly because I'm starting to have a hard time getting into Cullen's head, and also to tell her side of the story (also to make my 'self-insertions'). Due to the nature of events, the dialogue and occurrences in the game will be slightly different from the game play.

This is going to be a little long, as I'm planning on writing Alex's views about her adventures on the playable areas in the game, as well as on the personal quests of the companions. So please bear with me and be patient for the future chapters. Writer's block is frequent thing with my brain, I'm afraid. XD

They pushed open the doors of the main castle, and Alex couldn't help but frown at the sight. Stones and wood littered the floors, and there were holes in the roof, making snow fall down on them. She could hear Cullen, Josephine and Leliana walking behind her, taking in the damages as well, with the Ambassador sighing at the dismal surroundings.

"Well… there is much work to be done." Josephine said, and she started writing down on her ledger again, "We have enough funds to renovate Skyhold, although I do not think our current numbers could handle so many tasks."

"Don't worry, Josie. I think we will able to handle it." Leliana said, putting a hand on the Ambassador's shoulder. "I've sent many of my scouts to post Inquisition banners around their assigned cities. I'm sure they will be here within the week."

"But are we safe here? Do you think the Elder One… Corypheus, could catch us unawares here?" She said, crossing her arms as she turned to look at her advisors.

"It would be safe to assume that Corypheus would probably be readying his army again, as you decimated him back in Haven." Cullen said, his amber eyes looking at her, and for a moment, her cheeks flamed, "But for now, we must focus on increasing our own army, as well as dealing with these… matters that you have discovered back in Redcliffe."

"The assassination of Empress Celene and the demon army, yes, I remember." Alex nodded, "I don't know what Corypheus is, but since he said that the Mark is permanent and cannot be removed, he must be intent on continuing his plans." She rubbed her forehead with a hand and sighed, "Any idea how we can get to Empress Celene?"

At this, Josephine shifted through her notes, "If I remember correctly, Empress Celene will be holding a ball in Halamshiral. It aims to continue the peace talks concerning the Civil War between her forces and that of usurper Gaspard De Chalons, her cousin and apparently the right heir to the throne." She sighed, "But given the current state of our influence, it may be hard for us to acquire an invitation."

Alex nodded again as she looked at Josephine, "Right. See who else we can approach for support, Josephine. With the mages gone from Redcliffe, maybe we could secure an allegiance with Arl Teagan Guerrin." She looked at the spymaster, "Leliana, maybe you could send your scouts to Minrathous? We need information about Corypheus…"

"I can help with that."

The four of them turned around, seeing Varric walking towards them in gray breeches and a red shirt that was unbuttoned and showed off his hairy chest. The dwarf seemed a little nervous as he opened his hands in a gesture, "Everybody acting all brave and inspiration jogged my memory, so I've sent a letter to an old friend. She's crossed paths with Corypheus before and may know what he's up to. She can help."

Alex stared at him, before she blinked in realization. Varric nodded a little at her, looking positively guilty, "Varric… you didn't…"

"Trust me, it's complicated." The dwarf said, before heading back out the door, "If you need help, she'll be waiting in the battlements for you."

Alex stared at the door as he left, and Josephine coughed, "Well… it seems that we have addressed both these concerns."

Cullen nodded, "On your order, Inquisitor."

She sighed and put a hand on her waist, "Alright… Josie, I already told you what to do. Leliana, find out more about the Civil War in Orlais. If we are to increase our influence, we need to help as many people as we possibly could. Cullen, take care of the men and the wounded. I'll be heading to the battlements to speak with Varric's 'friend'."

Leliana scoffed as they stood in the middle of the castle, and Alex vaguely heard her say, "I know one thing… if Varric brought who I think he has, Cassandra is going to kill him."